September 29th 2023.
Police have made a second arrest in connection with the felling of the iconic Sycamore Gap tree in Northumberland.
The man in his 60s was arrested on Friday evening and remains in police custody, assisting officers with enquiries.
The loss of the tree, which appeared in the 1991 Robin Hood movie, was described by Northumbria Police as ‘senseless destruction’.
Detective chief inspector Rebecca Fenney-Menzies said: “The senseless destruction of what is undoubtedly a world-renowned landmark – and a local treasure – has quite rightly resulted in an outpour of shock, horror and anger throughout the North East and further afield.
“I hope this second arrest demonstrates just how seriously we’re taking this situation, and our ongoing commitment to find those responsible and bring them to justice.
The arrest follows that of a 16-year-old who has since been released on bail pending further enquiries. A nearby pub has also offered £1,500 to anyone who can provide vital information to the police.
Although the tree was cut down overnight on Thursday, experts say new shoots are expected to grow from the tree and that it may be possible to coppice it. Rob Ternent, head gardener at The Alnwick Garden, said the tree will start to grow again, but ‘won’t ever be the same shape or as good of a tree as it was’.
The tree, located next to Hadrian’s Wall, was made famous in a key scene in Kevin Costner’s 1991 film Robin Hood: Prince Of Thieves and is one of the most photographed trees in the country.
The news of its felling was met with dismay and outrage by walkers’ groups on social media, with one witness describing it as a ‘proper shock’ and ‘a huge sense of loss’.
Forensics officers have been taking measurements and samples from the remains and photographing the area, and an online crowdfunding page has been set up to raise money for the ‘rejuvenation of Sycamore Gap’.
The National Trust and Northumberland National Park Authority have yet to confirm their plans for the site, a spokesperson saying: “We’re very grateful for all the offers of support we’ve received – from people in the North East and much further afield. It is clear this tree was special to many, many people.”
Det ch insp Fenney-Menzies urged anyone with information to contact them, saying: “If you’ve seen or heard anything suspicious that may be of interest to us – I’d implore you to contact us. I’d also like to remind the public that this remains a live investigation so, for that reason, please avoid any speculation both in the community and on social media. Any information – no matter how small or insignificant you think it may be – could prove absolutely crucial to our enquiries.”
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